BROCK CREEK CORRIDOR REDISCOVERING THE VALUE OF URBAN CREEKS
Rachel Ware, Final Graduate Project, 2018 Master of Landscape Architecture Graduate Committee Members Thomas Woodfin, PhD
Professor of Landscape Architecture, University of Oklahoma
Sarah Little, PLA, PhD
Assistant Professor of Landscape Architecture, University of Oklahoma
Shane Hampton
Executive Director of the OU Institute for Quality Communities University of Oklahoma Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture Division of Landscape Architecture
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Many urban creeks have undergone a transformation from meandering waterbodies that support habitat and ecological function to channelized, concrete lined flood control utilities. This transformation has minimized the environmental, social, and economic value these waterbodies once had. Oklahoma City’s urban river, the Oklahoma River, has undergone a similar transformation to mitigate flooding, becoming a series of river-lakes that manage floodwaters while serving as a recreational amenity. However, the urban environment has placed ecological stressors on this resource which have led to water quality challenges. As the region continues to grow (a predicted 40% increase in land development by 2050), building resiliency into this amenity will be vital to its long-term success. The Oklahoma River receives stormwater runoff from its surrounding urban environment, which leads to nonpoint source pollution. Most creeks that collect stormwater from the river’s subwatersheds are channelized, promoting a concentrated flow of polluted water downstream into the Oklahoma River. This process can be mitigated through integrating natural treatment systems into the urban hydrological system. This study explores the opportunities for implementing a green infrastructure network in the Brock Creek sub-watershed.
2
Green infrastructure uses natural elements to manage stormwater and improve quality of life through ecosystem services. The Brock Creek sub-watershed is located south of the Oklahoma River, where communities are undergoing revitalization efforts and new livable, walkable districts are being introduced. Brock Creek’s linear footprint traverses neighborhoods and connects existing parks and trails south of the river, creating an opportunity for greenway development that may bridge gaps in the trail system. This study is meant to provide a vision for the economic, social, and environmental value the Brock Creek Corridor could bring to its surrounding neighborhood while building resilience into the city’s most valued waterbody, the Oklahoma River.
This report* supports many goals of OKC’s Comprehensive Plan & BikeWalkOKC: *disclaimer: the “Brock Creek Corridor” report is strictly for academic purposes
The City of Oklahoma City has developed a comprehensive plan, PlanOKC, that compiles feedback from community members, previous studies and plans, and the city’s goals. The findings in “Brock Creek Corridor: Rediscovering the Value of Urban Creeks” support many goals of both PlanOKC and BikeWalkOKC.
HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT1
ISSUES THAT GUIDED PLANOKC’S FOCUS2 The following are significant issues and challenges identified to guide OKC’s Comprehensive Planning Process:
The HIA process resulted in several recommendations, with the following three KEY recommendations: 1) Create more opportunities for walking and biking. 2) Increase access to fresh healthy produce. 3) Improve and protect water quality.
1) Changing population 2) Economic sustainability 3) Housing choice 4) Retail competition 5) Air and water quality 6) Fiscal sustainability 7) Neighborhood health 8) Health and wellness 9) Transportation system 10) Place quality
PLANOKC | GREENOKC INITIATIVES3
BIKEWALKOKC | GOALS4
1) Preserve or enhance natural habitat and open space connectivity. 2) Improve water quality and conserve water resources. 3) Establish a comprehensive urban forestry program. 4) Reduce the impacts of environmental hazards. 5) Improve air quality. 6) Increase the use of green building practices. 7) Increase the availability of locally grown food. 8) Promote environmental stewardship. 9) Enrich biodiversity and natural habitats in urban, suburban, and agricultural areas.
1) Walking and cycling is safe in Oklahoma CIty
“The Health Impact Assessment (HIA) was completed to evaluate the potential for various city-wide development patterns to influence opportunities related to health.”
2) Greater numbers of people are walking and cycling for transportation 3) Neighborhoods are connected to jobs, public transit, commercial districts, schools, and parks 4) Barriers to walking and cycling are removed
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TABLE OF CONTENTS PART 1:PROJECT INTRODUCTION
6 project purpose + goals 8 watershed + sub-watershed context 10 challenge + strategy
PART 2: BACKGROUND
12 why restore urban streams? 14 history of channelization in okc 15 oklahoma river: strengths & challenges 20 urban stressors on the oklahoma river 21 summary of okc’s watershed health
PART 3: POTENTIAL TO RECOVER 23 three indicators for recovery potential
24 (indicator 1) socioeconomic considerations 26 (indicator 2) hydrological equilibrium 27 (indicator 3) momentum + social investment + partnerships
PART 4: IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES
30 current land use 31 future: okc comprehensive plan 32 parks and trails 33 key locations 34 brock creek physical conditions 35 opportunity site selection
PART 5: RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES
38 low impact development techniques 39 brock creek green infrastructure master plan 38 oklahoma city community college 44 59th & youngs 48 greenway corridor
RESOURCES AND PRECEDENT STUDIES
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PART 1:
PROJECT INTRODUCTION This section provides an introduction to the purpose and goals of this project, along with illustrations indicating this project’s location within the state and local context.
p. 6 project purpose + goals p. 8 watershed + sub-watershed context p.10 challenge + strategy
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01. PROJECT INTRODUCTION
HEALTHY WATERSHEDS5 Healthy watersheds protect natural systems while providing several social and economic benefits to communities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categorizes these benefits into ecosystem, economic, and physical and mental benefits.
communities have used the engineering practice of channelizing and realigning waterbodies to convey water through an area quickly as a response to the devastation caused by flooding. While this mostly resulted in flood control, the ecological, economic, and social benefits of naturally flowing creeks were lost.
Ecosystem benefits: • Improved water quality • Carbon storage opportunities • Increased resilience in the face of climate change threats • Reduced risk for invasive species colonization
Oklahoma City’s response to devastating floods was no different. In the 1950s, a portion of the North Canadian River (now called the Oklahoma River) and surrounding creeks (including Brock Creek) began changing form as they were channelized, realigned, and widened as a means of flood control.
Economic benefits: • Reduced drinking water treatment and infrastructure costs • Reduced flood mitigation costs • Increased revenues and job opportunities • Increased property values
ABOUT: OKLAHOMA
Physical and mental benefits: • Lower rates of illness • Decreased stress and improved cognitive development • Higher likelihood to exercise CHALLENGE:
RIVERS
CHANNELIZATION OF
Watershed health across the United States has deteriorated. One factor contributing to this decline is the channelization and realignment of streams and rivers. Many 6
WATERSHED (P. 8)
RIVER
In 2004, OKC transformed this flood channel, the Oklahoma River, into a series of riverlakes, lined with trails, parks, and other recreational amenities. With both private and public investment, the river has become a vital resource to Oklahoma City. One opportunity for protecting the water quality of the Oklahoma River is restoring the creeks within the river’s watershed. As natural creeks became concrete channels to mitigate flooding, they lost their significance to the community as well as the ecosystem services they provided. OKC’s degraded creeks have reduced habitat value and minimized opportunities for natural systems to improve water quality entering the Oklahoma River. Improving
01. PROJECT INTRODUCTION
the health of the Oklahoma River’s subwatersheds can lead to protected water quality and numerous benefits to the communities surrounding these water bodies.
BROCK CREEK SUBWATERSHED (P. 9) ABOUT:
The location of this study is the Brock Creek sub-watershed. Brock Creek runs through historically under-served communities south of the Oklahoma River. Most of the creek corridor is now a concrete lined channel, carrying polluted stormwater directly into the Oklahoma River. Transforming this creek corridor and key locations along the corridor may lead to a number of benefits for the community.
PROJECT PURPOSE The intent of this project is to communicate the multi-scalar benefits of developing a green infrastructure network for the Brock Creek Corridor utilizing creek restoration techniques and LID BMPs in key locations. Through the analysis of the Brock Creek sub-watershed characteristics, this report contains design recommendations made with the intent of enhancing the Brock Creek corridor’s ability to: 1) improve water quality, 2) act as an access network, 3) contribute to economic improvement, & 4) serve as a recreational amenity.
PROJECT GOALS STRATEGY: GREEN
INFRASTRUCTURE + LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (P. 10) Developing a green infrastructure network of interconnected landscapes can improve water quality and enhance a community’s sense of civic pride. This project proposes a green infrastructure network that combines site-scale Low Impact Development (LID) Best Management Practices (BMPs) with greenway development and creek restoration techniques. This strategy can provide many of the benefits (p. 6) associated with healthy watersheds.
• To communicate the multi-scalar social,
economic, and environmental benefits of restoring the Brock Creek corridor
• To provide illustration that enables the community to visualize the potential of the Brock Creek Corridor
• To demonstrate the value of urban creek corridors as multi-functional corridors
• To serve as a reference for community members and policy makers regarding the importance of watershed health and the many ways creek corridors can be utilized to meet a community’s goals
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01. PROJECT INTRODUCTION
WATERSHED: NORTH CANADIAN RIVER (OKLAHOMA RIVER)
Oklahoma City, OK
Middle Cimarron River Watershed
Six watersheds in central Oklahoma touch the boundaries of Oklahoma City. The Lower North Canadian River Watershed begins in Oklahoma City with the Oklahoma River (an urban 9-mile portion of the North Canadian River).
OKLAHOMA WATERSHEDS
Middle North Canadian River Watershed Deep Fork River Watershed
Middle Canadian River Watershed
Lower North Canadian River Watershed (Oklahoma River)
Little River Watershed
WATERSHEDS WITHIN OKLAHOMA CITY BOUNDARIES 8
01. PROJECT INTRODUCTION
Oklahoma River
Downtown OKC
40
Wheeler District
k Cre
(Oklahoma River)
35
Capitol Hill
ek
North Canadian River Watershed
25th 29th
Broc
Brock Creek Sub-watershed
S. Western Ave.
S. May Ave.
S. Pennsylvania Ave.
SUB-WATERSHED: BROCK CREEK
36th
PROJECT LOCATION:
BROCK CREEK SUB-WATERSHED
OKC POPULATION:
638,367
BROCK CREEK SUBWATERSHED POPULATION:
78,112
Will Rogers Airport
59th
44
(~12% OF TOTAL POP.) BROCK CREEK SUBWATERSHED SIZE:
240
12.65 SQ MI
OCCC
BROCK CREEK LENGTH:
5.6 MI
N
44th
Capitol Hill Demographics (2016)6
(1-mi radius from SW 25th St. & S. Walker)
40.7% 3.4% 4.2% 0.3% 0.1% 46.1% 5.1%
White Alone Black Alone American Indian Alone Asian Alone Pacific Islander Alone Some Other Race Alone Two or More Races
74.6% Hispanic Origin (Any Race)
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01. PROJECT INTRODUCTION
BROCK CREEK SUB-WATERSHED CHALLENGE
PROPOSED STRATEGY Green Infrastructure:
“Research indicates that when 10% of a watershed has been converted to impervious surface, significant ecological damage has
already been done.”
16 OF OKLAHOMA CITY’S 40 SUB-WATERSHEDS ARE >10% IMPERVIOUS
BROCK CREEK SUB-WATERSHED IS
40% IMPERVIOUS
Data: OKC Health Impact Assessment Images: http://jaokc.com/portfolio/brock-creek/
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The EPA defines green infrastructure as: “a costeffective, resilient approach to managing wet weather impacts that provides many community benefits. Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and other elements and practices to restore some of the natural processes required to manage water and create healthier urban environments. At the city or county scale, green infrastructure is a patchwork of natural areas that provides habitat, flood protection, cleaner air, and cleaner water. At the neighborhood or site scale, stormwater management systems that mimic nature soak up and store water.”20
Green Infrastructure Network
creek restoration & greenway development
low impact development at key opportunity sites
PART 2:
BACKGROUND This section provides a brief overview of the history of Oklahoma City’s rivers, their strengths, and the challenges they face in the urban environment.
p.12 why restore urban streams? p.14 history of channelization in okc p.15 oklahoma river: strengths & challenges p.20 urban stressors on the oklahoma river p.21 summary of okc’s watershed health
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02. BACKGROUND
WHY RESTORE URBAN STREAMS?
WHY: 1. To improve water quality
er Oklahoma Riv
2. To enhance access networks
3. To stimulate economic improvement k
Broc
kC
ree
4. To create recreational corridors
Oklahoma River Floodplain
EXISTING:
SINGLE-FUNCTION CORRIDOR Most of Oklahoma City’s urban creeks are now concrete lined channels, with a single function: moving stormwater quickly downstream. During a storm event, water is directed from adjacent land into the concrete lined channels, which carry stormwater to a receiving water body.
Brock Creek existing conditions
12
resource: Google Earth
economic improvement
ridor
recreational corridor
l Cor
rcia mme
Co
access network water quality
VISION:
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL CORRIDOR
1. water quality Restoring a riparian corridor can improve water quality by slowing, infiltrating, and cleaning water as it enters a waterbody. Vegetation can also stabilize water edges and provide habitat for native species.7
2. access network Creek corridors are unique as access networks in that they are linear passages through neighborhoods. Adding walking/biking infrastructure to these corridors can improve mobility and access, while encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle.
3. economic improvement Restoring a more natural creek corridor, with improved aesthetics may lead to economic improvement by changing the perceived value and safety associated with the surrounding area.8 It may also encourage private investment along the corridor.
4. recreational corridor Recreational corridors tend to be valued far greater than single-function concrete channels. These revitalized corridors can provide recreational value while also creating educational opportunities and a restorative setting. 13
02. BACKGROUND
HISTORY OF CHANNELIZATION IN OKLAHOMA CITY CHANNELIZED FOR FLOOD CONTROL In the 1920s, Oklahoma City was devastated by several floods displacing residents, isolating entire communities, and causing millions of dollars’ worth of damage. Over the next 10-20 years, flood control dams were built to control the water sweeping through the area. Improvements to the river continued when, in 1958, the river was straightened, widened and realigned.9 Finally, in 2004, additional dams were added to create three river-lakes, in an attempt to restore the river’s habitat and improve aesthetics. Today, the river is lined with trails, world class rowing facilities, parks, and several future development plans.
1923 Flood, Oklahoma City, OK
River restoration project completed - river renamed “Oklahoma River”
Flood control dams built
1923
1958 1930s-40s
Severe flooding along N. Canadian River - forced evacuation of 15,000 OKC residents
2004 Straightening, widening, and realigning of the river
HISTORICAL USE
“Cheyenne Indians - Camps - On North Canadian River”
“Crazy Snake Rebellion” (~1901)
resource: http://dougdawg.blogspot.com/2006/08/oklahoma-river-part-2.html “Boating on North Canadian River - 1910”
14
resource: Oklahoma Historical Society
“Boating on North Canadian River - Shawnee”
02. BACKGROUND
OKLAHOMA RIVER: STRENGTHS & CHALLENGES
2016
1948
OKLA. RIVER | THEN & NOW Although the Oklahoma River has become a recreational amenity for central Oklahoma, it faces challenges associated with channelization and its urban surroundings. The images to the left depict the river’s conditions before and after channelization. Creeks entering the river have also been channelized and face similar challenges.
resource: Oklahoma Historical Society
North Canadian River, East of Oklahoma City - 1948
resource: Google Earth
North Canadian River, East of Oklahoma City - 2016
DEGRADED HABITATS
OKLAHOMA RIVER CHANNELIZATION STRENGTHS
CHALLENGES
flood control
degraded habitat (right)
(left) (p. 16) (p. 16)
recreational amenity
public/private investment
future growth predictions (p. 17) water quality issues (p. 18)
A 2000 Report from the Army Corps of Engineers10 says: “The degraded and fragmented condition of the existing riverine, bottomland hardwood and wetland riparian habitat along the North Canadian River has reduced the habitat value for common wildlife species found in riverine, wetland, and bottomland hardwood forest habitats to unacceptable levels.” Changes to the river resulted in flood control, but the native vegetation and riparian buffer have not been restored.
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02. BACKGROUND
OKLAHOMA RIVER: STRENGTHS VALUE OF OKC’S WATERWAYS With both public and private investment in the Oklahoma River, it has become a recreational and economic resource for OKC. The health of the river is vital to its success. The Oklahoma River project also showcases the investment by the community into these waterways, and the potential for future investment in preserving this amenity.
OKLAHOMA RIVER
In Oklahoma, outdoor recreation generates
$8.4 BILLION
Cost: $53.5 Million
(2004)
Public Investment
TOURISM
11
ECONOMIC VALUE OF THE OKLAHOMA RIVER
12
in consumer spending.
Private Investment
is Oklahoma’s
BUILDING RESILIENCY Creating green infrastructure networks and restoring OKC’s urban creeks can protect the water quality of the Oklahoma River and enhance the ecosystem services offered to the community by these waterways.
3RD LARGEST INDUSTRY
Building environmental resilience into the Oklahoma River can lead to an economically and socially resilient regional destination.
resource: https://alchetron.com/Boathouse-District
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BOATHOUSE DISTRICT
02. BACKGROUND
OKLAHOMA RIVER: CHALLENGES | FUTURE LAND DEVELOPMENT PREDICTED GROWTH
2050 LAND COVER PROJECTIONS 13
Edmond
+40% change in developed -5% change in forests -9% change in cultivated crops
It is predicted that the Oklahoma City Metro will have a 40% increase in developed land by the year 2050. Without proper planning, increased land development means reduced green infrastructure which acts as a natural filtration system for stormwater. An increase in impervious surfaces means increased runoff pollution into already-impaired water bodies.
Yukon Oklahoma City
Norman
2011 Development Footprint 2050 Development Footprint
Comparing NLCD 2011 to the Clark Labs’ Predicted NLCD 2050 (adapted)
17
02. BACKGROUND
EPA WATERBODY QUALITY ASSESSMENT REPORTS 1996-2014
OKLAHOMA RIVER: CHALLENGES | POLLUTION OKLAHOMA RIVER: IMPAIRED WATERBODY Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act requires states to list impaired waters that do not meet the water quality standards set by the state. The Oklahoma River has been categorized as an EPA 303(d) Listed and Impaired Waterbody for several causes of impairment during multiple monitoring cycles from 1996-2014.
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF IMPAIRMENT A 2011 study by the USGS evaluated water quality samples taken in two locations near Oklahoma City from 1968-2009. The study identified possible urban sources of pollution as, “factors associated with increases in development in the North Canadian River Basin. Leachate from septic systems; leaking underground waste storage systems; increases in fertilizer application on suburban lawns, highway and urban runoff; and increases in combined sewer overflows may be causes of increases in dissolved nutrient concentrations and decreases in dissolved oxygen concentrations...” 15
18
303(D) IMPAIRED WATERBODY HISTORY REPORT OKLAHOMA RIVER 1996-201414 Frequency of Impairment Causes
Fecal Coliform
7
Dissolved Oxygen
6
Organic Enrichment/
5
Turbidity
5
Low Dissolved Oxygen
Enterococcus Bacteria
3
Escherichia Coli
3
Pathogens
3
Dieldrin
2
Nutrients
2
Oil & Grease
2
pH
2
Sulfates
2
Unknown Toxicity
1
EPA WATERBODY QUALITY ASSESSMENT REPORT 2014 Oklahoma River Water Quality Assessment Status for Reporting Year 2014 16 The overall status of this waterbody is IMPAIRED.
State: Oklahoma Waterbody ID: OK520520000010_40 Location: HUC: 11100302 Water Size: 9.78 miles
Oklahoma River Brock Creek
Oklahoma River Probable Sources Contributing to Impairment for Reporting Year 2014
BROCK CREEK WATER QUALITY
Green Infrastructure
17
% STREAMLENGTH IMPAIRED 303D-LISTED + TMDLS (2015):
Percent of streamlength in the HUC12 with a TMDL or listed as impaired and requiring a TMDL under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act.
TOOLS & RESOURCES
40%
https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure Recovery Potential Screening
https://www.epa.gov/rps
Drinking Water Mapping Application to Protect Source Waters
https://www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection/dwmaps
19
02. BACKGROUND
OKLAHOMA RIVER: CHALLENGES | URBAN NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CHANNELIZED CREEKS
NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION
Other stressors may include: unprotected headwaters, fertilizer or pesticide input, and agricultural inputs
Concrete, trapezoidal, channelized creeks are unable to provide the ecosystem services associated with functional creeks.
Oklahoma City’s urban environment introduces several ecological stressors to its waterways. Nonpoint source pollution can come from different sources and is the result of stormwater moving over or through the ground and collecting pollutants before entering a body of water.
Urban Development
Heavy industrial land use bordering river
Unprotected riparian edge
While the Oklahoma River watershed has several ecological stressors, the purpose of this study is to assess the condition of one channelized creek (Brock Creek) entering the Oklahoma River and propose a green infrastructure network to improve subwatershed health.
235
Downtown OKC
40
Wheeler District
LEGEND Oklahoma River
Heavy Industrial Parks
Brock Creek
Floodway 100-Year Flood
Channelized creeks
resource: Google Earth
20
Heavy industrial land use
Urban development
Unprotected riparian edge
SUMMARY OF OKC’S WATERSHED HEALTH WATERSHED DAMAGE “Research indicates that when 10% of a watershed has been converted to impervious surface, significant ecological damage has already been done. According to the City’s Health Impact Assessment, of the city’s 40 sub-watersheds, 16 are above 10%, and eight are between 5% and 10%. Drainage solutions in use today have improved drainage but come with undesirable side effects. For example, channelization and other “hard” engineering solutions can speed 18 the flow of contaminated runoff water into streams and lakes.”
CHALLENGES Watershed scale
Oklahoma River Watershed
impaired waterbody
Sub-watershed scale
Brock Creek Sub-watershed
40% impervious surface
Creek scale
Brock Creek
portion of creek is impaired
Site Scale
Opportunity Sites Along Creek
community disconnected from water
PROPOSED STRATEGY Green Infrastructure Network
creek restoration & greenway development
low impact development at key opportunity sites
The following sections will cover 1) 3 reasons why Brock Creek sub-watershed has a high potential to recover, 2) a detailed view of the Brock Creek sub-watershed characteristics, followed by recommended opportunity sites, and 3) a proposed green infrastructure network for the Brock Creek Corridor. 21
PART 3:
POTENTIAL TO RECOVER This section describes using the EPA’s ‘Watershed Recovery Potential’ Screening Tool Kit to assess various social, economic, and environmental conditions of the Brock Creek sub-watershed. Based on these indicators, the Brock Creek sub-watershed has a high restoration potential.
p.23 three indicators for recovery potential p.24 (indicator 1) socioeconomic considerations p.26 (indicator 2) hydrological equilibrium p.27 (indicator 3) momentum + social investment + partnerships
ABOUT:
EPA’S ‘WATERSHED RECOVERY POTENTIAL’ SCREENING
BROCK CREEK’S RECOVERY POTENTIAL: HIGH
The EPA has developed several tools to assist communities in taking a watershed approach to water management. One of these tools is the Watershed Recovery Potential Screening (RPS) resource. This resource provides data at different scales and lists several indicators for users to screen for the potential of watershed recovery. It also provides methods for recovery and additional resources.
1) SOCIOECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS
The indicators are broken into the following categories: - ecological indicators - stressor indicators - social context indicator
2) HYDROLOGICAL EQUILIBRIUM
For this study, indicators from each category have been used throughout the project in an effort to provide a well-rounded analysis of the sub-watershed. Recovery Potential Screening
https://www.epa.gov/rps
Socioeconomic indicators suggest that, in comparison to other North Canadian River sub-watersheds, the neighborhoods near Brock Creek may have greater need for the creek corridor’s restoration as an access network, a recreational amenity, and a source for economic improvement.
A relatively stable development footprint suggests that, over the last 50 years, Brock Creek has reached an urban hydrological equilibrium, making it a feasible option for restoration.
3) SOCIAL INVESTMENT + PARTNERSHIPS
The presence of invested neighborhood associations and several schools along the creek corridor suggests that there could be high social investment in a restoration project. Additionally, the presence of higher education institutions presents opportunities for partnerships and grants.
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03. POTENTIAL TO RECOVER
INDICATOR 1: SOCIOECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS Percent of People Reporting Unemployment in Last 12 Months (age 20-64) By Block Group
0% - 16% 17% - 28% 29% - 40% 41% - 54% 55% - 89%
UNEMPLOYMENT
PRESENCE OF CHILDREN
Percent of Households with One or More Persons Under Age 18 By Block Group
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0% - 5% 6% - 15% 16% - 29% 30% - 48% 49% - 90%
Percent of People Reporting Education Less Than High School Diploma (over age 18) By Block Group
LOW-LEVEL OF EDUCATION
POVERTY
Percent of Families Reporting Poverty in Last 12 Months By Block Group
0% - 13% 14% - 20% 21% - 29% 30% - 41% 42% - 74%
0% - 6% 7% - 15% 16% - 26% 27% - 43% 44% - 82%
03. POTENTIAL TO RECOVER
SOCIOECONOMIC VIEW OF BROCK CREEK SUB-WATERSHED
Oklahoma
Oklahoma County
OKLAHOMA COUNTY | COMPOSITE
Presence of Children + Unemployment + Poverty + Low Level of Education
The composite of Oklahoma County is a combination of four indicators that may provide one perspective of the socioeconomic conditions in the county. With an overlay of the North Canadian River watershed, broken into sub-watershed boundaries, an argument can be made for where resources may need to be allocated based on the social, economic, and environmental benefits associated with creek corridor restoration. Indicators used: - Presence of children - Unemployment - Poverty - Low-level of education
ed
sh er
at
W er
di
an
th
r No
a an
Riv
C
study site: Brock Creek Sub-watershed
While there are several factors to consider, these maps suggest that the Brock Creek Sub-watershed may receive the greatest benefit from creek corridor restoration. Improving the sub-watershed’s health will contribute to improved health of the North Canadian River Watershed while improving the quality of life for residents of the Brock Creek subwatershed.
data sources: - U.S. Census Bureau - Oklahoma Water Resources Board
25
03. POTENTIAL TO RECOVER
INDICATOR 2: HYDROLOGICAL EQUILIBRIUM
1951
2017 Downtown OKC
Downtown OKC 40
40 44
44
35
35
Brock Creek Sub-watershed
Brock Creek Sub-watershed
Historical aerial imagery pieced together - 1951
“Streams constantly adjust and attempt to recover from human conditions, no matter what the setting is.” - Restoring Neighborhood Streams, Ann L. Riley19
In Riley’s “Restoring Neighborhood Streams,” the author discusses the stages of urban streams evolving through the conditions presented by urban environments, based on the research of Luna Leopold and Anne Chin. 26
Aerial imagery from Google Earth - 2017
Five Stages of Urban Stream Equilibrium 1st stage. 10 years: initial development with housing & roads 2nd stage. 10 years: construction sites lead to sediment loads 3rd stage. 20 years: continued development & straightening/concrete lining of streams 4th stage. 10 years: new building ceases channels are wide and banks are not stabilized
5th stage. The public desires streams to be more natural
NEW URBAN EQUILIBRIUM
The Brock Creek Sub-watershed appears to have gone through at least 50 years of development, with most land developed, creeks lined with concrete, and infrastructure in place. This means that the creek corridor has likely reached a new urban equilibrium, so there won’t be new sediment loads and the amount of runoff the creek receives will remain stable. This is one factor that makes restoration of Brock Creek a viable possibility.
03. POTENTIAL TO RECOVER
INDICATOR 3: MOMENTUM + SOCIAL INVESTMENT + PARTNERSHIPS
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS
ENGAGED NEIGHBORHOODS Brock Creek runs through several neighborhoods with active neighborhood associations. The Capitol Hill neighborhood was recently chosen to receive funding for the Strong Neighborhoods Initiative, partially based on how active and engaged the neighborhood was.
Downtown OKC 40 44 Oklahoma River
broc
k cre
ek
PARTNERSHIPS
35
The sub-watershed also has approximately 20 schools and 2 college campuses within its boundaries (p.33). These institutions may have interest in partnerships or grant opportunities to take part in restoration projects along the creek corridor.
CITY’S FINANCIAL INVESTMENT
240
N
The area south of the river is beginning to see economic improvement investments from the city through street, sidewalk, and trail improvements, as well as investments in parks and the revitalization of commercial corridors. (p. 30) With clear interest from both residents and the city, there may be future funding opportunities for creek corridor enhancements. 27
PART 4:
IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES This section characterizes the Brock Creek sub-watershed through physical attributes, combining current and future plans for the area. At the end of this section, opportunity sites are identified based on combined physical, social, and economic characteristics that have been included throughout this report.
p.30 current land use p.31 future: okc comprehensive plan p.32 parks and trails p.33 key locations p.34 brock creek physical conditions p.35 opportunity site selection
28
“Oklahoma City Skyline” Sketch By: Sketchy-G Link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/40945387@N02/10713858656/in/photostream/
29
44
Wheeler District
S. Western Ave.
Stockyards Business Improvement District (BID)
S. May Ave.
LAND USE
S. Pennsylvania Ave.
04. IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES Downtown OKC
Oklahoma River
ek
2
broc
k cre
25th 1
POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS
With two college sites near the creek corridor, there is potential for partnerships and grants. Additionally, with city investments and budding development districts in the sub-watershed, there may be interest in private-public partnerships to enhance the Brock Creek Corridor for increased land value as well as its use as a recreational amenity.
40
3
PRESENT
INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT
Improvements along S. Western and SW 29th Ave. may provide opportunities to incorporate green infrastructure into the street design.
29th
Key Locations / Potential Partnerships 2
36th
1 Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) 2 OCCC - Capitol Hill Center
2
44th Capitol Hill Business Improvement District (BID)
2017 Bond Investments 1 2
59th 3
$9.9 million SW 29th St. | street enhancements $1.75 million S Penn Ave. | sidewalk improvements $1.1 million S. Western Ave. | sidewalk improvements
COLLEGE PARTNERSHIP 240
1
Institutional Office/Commercial Green Space/Open Space Residential
N 30
Industrial
The OCCC campus has the headwaters of Brock Creek on its campus - this may present an opportunity for the campus to compete in a grant competition, such as the EPA Campus RainWorks Challenge or another green infrastructure grant.
04. IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES
S. Western Ave.
S. May Ave.
planokc: comprehensive plan (adapted)
Downtown OKC
S. Pennsylvania Ave.
FUTURE
44
IMPROVEMENTS PLANNED
The image to the left depicts a portion of the OKC Comprehensive Plan, which shows several improvements to neighborhoods within the Brock Creek Sub-watershed, including re-visioning of commercial corridors, transit-oriented development, and urban commercial corridors.
40
Oklahoma River
k cre
ek
CAPITOL HILL FUNDING broc
Capitol Hill
25th 29th
36th
The Oklahoma City Council voted for the Capitol Hill neighborhood to receive national funding, coordinated by the city, for the revitalization of the neighborhood, through the Strong Neighborhoods Initiative. Part of the criteria that Capitol Hill was selected for was significant social investment by their neighborhood association.
44th
29TH STREET CORRIDOR AESTHETICS
59th
The retail priority area undergoing a revision along 29th Street may find value in enhancing the aesthetics of the Brock Creek corridor as well as connecting 29th Street to the parks along the corridor to improve the experience of patrons along that commercial corridor.
240
N 31
04. IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES
PARKS & TRAILS
Downtown OKC
River Park
44
Future Scissortail Park
Elm Grove Park
Wheeler Park
2
oklahoma river
40
broc
k cre
ek
S. Western Ave.
Rotary Park
3
Woodson Park
Brock Creek Park
Wiley Post Park
Oklahoma City’s bond investments make a significant contribution to the trails and parks in this sub-watershed. While Brock Creek physically connects existing parks and trails, there is no access for pedestrians to reach each park. There may be opportunities to create a greenway that connects these parks and ultimately enhances the experience of the Oklahoma River trail system.
BikeWalkOKC Plan (2018) 29th
1
1
$660,000 S. Grand Blvd Trail |trail enhancements
2
$1.9 million Rail Trail | new trail across OK River
1
44th Youngs Park
59th
3
S. Penn. Ave.
S. May Ave.
Syl Goldman Park
Proposed Greenway
2017 Bond Investments
36th
1
INVESTMENT IN OKC’S PARKS & TRAILS
$10.8 million Woodson Park | new parks
CONNECTING THE GAPS
240
existing trails
N 32
OKC Trails Master Plan
Bridging the gap between the Oklahoma River trails and the Brock Creek sub-watershed, using the existing Brock Creek corridor would create a greater access network for the residents in this area. Enhancing access in this under-served community may contribute to a healthier population due to greater access equity through access to healthier food options, jobs, and recreational amenities.
04. IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITY SITES
KEY LOCATIONS
40
44
SCHOOLS: EDUCATIONAL
Students may contribute to the process of design and construction, with educational opportunities on green infrastructure, ecology, and urban hydrology. This facilitates an opportunity to teach children about environmental stewardship and be a part of a hands-on project.
SENIOR CENTERS + HOSPITALS: RESTORATIVE
broc k
cree
k
oklahoma river
Downtown OKC
The elderly and those experiencing sickness are some of the most vulnerable populations in cities. Having access to calm, restorative spaces can greatly improve their well-being. Because of the proximity of both the hospital and the senior centers to the creek, there may be social or financial investment from these stakeholders if the value in creek restoration is realized.
CENTRAL LOCATION ALONG CREEK Between 44th Street and 59th Street are two elementary schools, two senior centers, and a hospital. The density of these key locations may provide a significant social investment in a restoration project. 240 Elementary Schools Middle/High Schools Colleges Senior Centers
N
Hospitals
33
BROCK CREEK PHYSICAL CONDITIONS
Naturalized
• Natural creek bed
• Bordered by •
parks and floodplain Most feasible for restoration
Park Borders
• Concrete lined channel • Bordered by parks • Feasible for restoration and greenway development
Residential Borders
• Concrete lined channel • Bordered by privately owned land
• Least feasible portion for greenway
Headwaters
• • • • N
Concrete lined ditch Part of OCCC campus Bordered by parking lots Open space for use of LID
OPPORTUNITY SITE LOCATIONS
bro
ck c
ree
k
SITE SELECTION:
GREENWAY CORRIDOR
This corridor shows the most promise for greenway development and connection opportunities.
59TH & YOUNGS
This location has a vacant lot adjacent to the creek corridor that could be incorporated into the restoration of the creek. It is also near a hospital, two senior centers, and schools, creating opportunities to connect students to the creek and develop restorative spaces.
OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE N
The headwaters of Brock Creek are located between two parking lots on the OCCC campus. This location presents opportunities for partnerships and grants.
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PART 5:
RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES This section provides a series of recommended strategies to meet the goals identified in the beginning of this report, which include enhancing the Brock Creek corridor’s ability to: 1) improve water quality, 2) act as an access network, 3) contribute to economic improvement, & 4) serve as a recreational amenity.
p.38 low impact development techniques p.39 brock creek green infrastructure master plan p.40 oklahoma city community college p.44 59th & youngs p.48 greenway corridor
Low Impact Development (LID) Technique
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainfall for later use. When designed appropriately, they slow and reduce runoff and provide a source of water.
Rain Gardens
Rain gardens are versatile features that can be installed in almost any unpaved space. They are shallow, vegetated basins that collect and absorb runoff from rooftops, sidewalks, and streets. Planter boxes are urban rain gardens with vertical walls and either open or closed bottoms. They collect and absorb runoff from sidewalks, parking lots, and streets and are ideal for spacelimited sites in dense urban areas.
Planter Boxes
(Vegetated Planters)
Bioswales
Bioswales are vegetated, mulched, or xeriscaped channels that provide treatment and retention as they move stormwater from one place to another. Vegetated swales slow, infiltrate, and filter stormwater flows.
Permeable Pavements
Permeable pavements infiltrate, treat, and/or store rainwater where it falls. They can be made of pervious concrete, porous asphalt, or permeable interlocking pavers.
Green Streets
Green streets are created by integrating green infrastructure elements into their design to store, infiltrate, and evapotranspire stormwater.
Green Roofs
Green roofs are covered with growing media and vegetation that enable rainfall infiltration and evapotranspiration of stored water.
Urban Tree Canopy
Trees reduce and slow stormwater by intercepting precipitation in their leaves and branches.
Constructed Wetlands
Constructed wetlands are treatment systems that use natural processes involving wetland vegetation, soils, and their associated microbial assemblages to improve water quality.
Creek Restoration 38
Description
Resource: EPA Green Infrastructure20
Functional Restoration: Stream restoration that recognizes many processes of streams can be returned, such as “sediment transport and deposition, erosion, vegetative growth, channel planform changes, bed load sorting, and riffle, pool, and step development that are associated with functioning habitat� (Riley).
Rainwater Harvesting
Rain Garden
Planter Boxes
Bioswale
Permeable Pavement
Green Streets
Green Roofs
Constructed Wetlands
Urban Tree Canopy
BROCK CREEK GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
MASTER PLAN
Wheeler District
Oklahoma River
Rotary Park
Green Street
Wiley Post Park
Brock Creek Greenway
SW 22th SW 25th Capitol Hill
Green Street
SW 29th
CONCEPT FRAMEWORK:
Develop a green infrastructure network by restoring Brock Creek to a functional level & implementing LID in key locations, creating a vibrant, multifunctional corridor that better serves the community.
Woodson Park
S. Walker
S. Western
S. Mckinley
S. Pennsylvania
44
S. May
Grand Blvd.
SW 44th
Youngs Park
Youngs Wetland Park
BENEFITS TO COMMUNITY Improved Water Quality
Restoring Brock Creek to a functional level coupled with capturing and treating water in key locations may lead to improved water quality.
Enhanced Access Network
The Brock Creek Greenway is intended to enhance the existing access network for greater access to jobs, recreational amenities, and services. SW 59th
Economic Opportunities
Restoring Brock Creek to be viewed as an amenity to the community may encourage additional public and private investment in the area.
240
Recreational Amenity Safe Bike/Ped Crossing Existing Trail
N
OCCC Waterworks Plaza
Restoration of Brock Creek would improve existing parks and the trails network, while providing a restorative experience in an urban environment.
Proposed Trail Opportunity Sites
39
05. RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES | OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE OCCC Library
3.7 Acres 1.1 Acres Impervious Roof
Minimal Vegeta�on
Concentrated Discharge From Campus Parking
Stormwater carrying pollutants overflows into Brock Creek
Impervious Surface Parking
ge schar i D d te entra g Waters c n o C ceivin to Re
U�litarian Func�on
(Minimal ecosystem services) (Lacking aesthetics)
(Limited Evapotranspiration)
Main Building
5.5 Acres
Impervious Surface Parking
N
40
CONDITIONS
OCCC Campus Context Map
OCCC Waterworks Plaza P.42
Constructed Wetland • • • •
Peak Flow Reduction Sedimentation Evapotranspiration Extended biological treatment
Increase Vegetation • •
Evapotranspiration Retention
Green Roof • • • • •
Runoff reduction Retention Evapotranspiration Filtration Extended biological treatment
Stormwater is slowed & filtered before flowing into Brock Creek
Bioswale • • • •
Rain Garden • • • • • •
Runoff reduction Retention Infiltration Filtration Extended biological treatment Sedimentation
Runoff reduction Retention Infiltration Filtration
Pervious Pavement
STRATEGY
• • • •
Runoff reduction Retention Infiltration Filtration
N
41
OCCC WATERWORKS PLAZA
CAPTURE & TREAT STORMWATER
DESIGN INTENT
1. During a rain event, water is captured from the roof and diverted to the green roof for dispersal
I. CAPTURE AND TREAT STORMWATER The primary objective of this plaza design is to capture and treat stormwater using a variety of Low Impact Development techniques. Water is captured from the roof and treated through one or more techniques before being diverted into a bioswale that acts as the headwaters for Brock Creek.
2. A portion of the stormwater is diverted to the vertical garden, the rainwater harvesting system or the stormwater planters
f
n Roo
Gree
II. MAKE STORMWATER VISIBLE In this space, water is used in a way that enhances the perception of water as a resource and not a liability. The treatment process is visible from the initial collection of stormwater to its diversion away from the plaza after treatment. This design, coupled with the use of art and educational signage, creates a memorable and engaging learning experience. Colleges are full of the community’s future leaders, so engaging students on campus can ensure a greater focus placed on water as a resource in the future.
With a variety of seating options available, visitors can find an inviting, restorative space away from the business of a college campus. The vegetation used in the stormwater features in and around the plaza welcome wildlife and create a cool microclimate, while the sound of running water creates a soothing environment. Visitors can hear, smell, see, and feel the benefits of using low impact development techniques.
rial
Memo
ary
Libr
Vertical Garden Stormwater Planters Rainwater Harvesting Feature 3. Treated water is then diverted into a bioswale adjacent to the plaza
Context
III. CREATE AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
f h Le
it C Ke
OCC
h twic
Water As Art
Educational Signage
The central focus of this plaza is a rainwater harvesting art piece. Incorporating art into the water treatment process captures attention from visitors and enhances the aesthetics of the space.
This plaza serves as a unique educational experience, where visitors can follow the stormwater treatment process first hand and learn the value of these urban interventions.
Connection to Water
This plaza is an opportunity to showcase urban stormwater treatment options and tie that in with downstream water quality challenges. This builds social investment in OKC’s waterways.
le M ak e Stormwater Visib
C
re at ea n Imm
ersive E
ce en i r xp e
OCCC Waterworks Plaza
43
05. RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES | 59TH & YOUNGS
59TH & YOUNGS Apartments
Minimal Vegeta�on
Stormwater carrying pollutants flows downstream, & eventually into the Oklahoma River
Hospital
Concentrated Discharge From Other Sites
(Limited Evapotranspiration) Con (Bro crete L ck C ined ree k) Chann
el
No Access to Water
r Hou
sing
3.1 Acres
Impervious Surface
Co
m
m
er cia
l
Apartments
Senio
Co
mm
Brock Creek Channel | Scale Reference
erc
ial
2.9 Acres
Lack of enjoyable
Impervious Surface
70’ wide N
7’ tall
U�
(M litar walkable space i (Po nimal ian F or a eco un s est heti ystem c�on cs) ser vice s)
44
CONDITIONS
Con c From entrat Ups ed Dis trea c m harge
Youngs Wetland Park P. 46
Creekside Boardwalk
Stormwater is slowed & filtered before flowing downstream to the Oklahoma River
Future D
Constructed Wetland
Peak Flow Reduction Sedimentation Evapotranspiration Extended biological treatment
• • • •
evelopm
ent Site
Increase Vegetation • •
Evapotranspiration Retention
Rain Garden • • • • • •
Runoff reduction Retention Infiltration Filtration Extended biological treatment Sedimentation
Creek Restoration Bioswale • • • •
Runoff reduction Retention Infiltration Filtration
STRATEGY
• • • •
Evapotranspiration Filtration Sedimentation Extended biological treatment
45
Creek Edge
This area supports creek edge stability. Rock outcrops provide opportunities for sediment and pollutants to settle. A boardwalk along the creek creates access to the creek and its habitat.
YOUNGS WETLAND PARK DESIGN INTENT I. RESTORE ECOLOGICAL INTEGRITY The current conditions of the creek corridor limit ecological function and promote the concentrated flow of water downstream. The four tier wetlands provide opportunities for a rich biodiversity of native plants, wildlife, and bacteria to thrive and support flood plain function and contribute to ecosystem services offered by functional creek corridors. Restoring the creek corridor to capture, slow, and filter stormwater can prevent flood damage and erosion downstream.
sed
propo existing
II. PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES This project site is within a 1/2 mile walk to several schools and is surrounded by mid-density housing. Wetlands support unique organisms and wildlife that could peak the interest of students and community members. The boardwalk provides a suggested path for exploration but leaves freedom for interaction with plants and wildlife. Signage provides education about the corridor which could build civic pride and environmental stewardship.
III. CREATE MULTI-GENERATIONAL PARK Adjacent to this project site is senior housing that has minimal natural features or safe, comfortable walking conditions. This park is designed to accommodate the needs of the aging population, with a visible, comfortable walking route, stop spots, smooth walking surfaces, shady areas, seating, and multi-functional spaces that create the freedom to choose passive or active activities. With its location in the neighborhood, it becomes a “third place� for any community member looking for social interaction via public spaces. 46
el
chann
Riparian Wetland
This area expands the flood plain into four tiers that support ecological processes and mitigate flooding. This area creates an opportunity for ecological exploration and education.
Designated Open Space
Multi-functional open spaces provide flexibility for a variety of active and passive activities.
Youngs Wetland Park ng
isti
tige
rk
M
ul
ex lP nerationa
a
es
E
du iti ca un t tion r al Opp o
Wat
er Le vel Seve re Floo d Ev ent Wat
er Le vel Abo ve A ve Floo d Ev rage ent Wat
er Le
Ave Floo rage d Ev ent
Ec rity olog ical Integ
vel
Existing Site Conditions
Resources: • Placemaking for an Aging Population21 • The Oklahoma Wetlands Reference Guide22
47
05. RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES | GREENWAY CORRIDOR
GREENWAY CORRIDOR Wheeler District
Oklahoma River
Rotary Park
Stormwater carrying pollutants flows directly into the Oklahoma River
S Western Ave.
S McKinley Ave.
SW 25th St.
(Commercial Corridor)
SW 22th St.
Capitol Hill
Brock Park
SW 29th St.
Wiley Post Park
Floodway Serves U�litarian Func�on (Lack of riparian edge) (limited ecosystem services) (poor aesthetics) (limited access to water)
(Commercial Corridor)
A gap exists where the trails are discon�nued
Stormwater flows from surrounding area into Brock Creek
Existing Parks Existing Flood Channel
Grand Blvd. Trail
Grand Blvd.
48
OK River Trails
CONDITIONS
N
Existing Trail (at grade) Existing Trail (in floodway) Arterial Street Commercial Corridor
• Restore Brock Creek to a functional level
• Prioritize pedestrian/bicycle safety at arterial streets
feasible (primarily integrating into existing park space)
• Utilize Green Street23 design
to strengthen connection between commercial corridors and trail system
S Western Ave.
S McKinley Ave.
• Expand the trail system • Expand the floodplain, where
Stormwater flows through a functional creek, which captures, slows, and filters stormwater before entering the Oklahoma River
SW 22th St. Green Streets (Commercial Corridor)
SW 25th St.
Green Streets
Capitol Hill
Green Streets (Commercial Corridor)
SW 29th St.
Green Space S. Penn. Ave.
Expanded Flood Plain Creek Path
Brock Creek Greenway
Existing Trail (at grade)
p. 50
Existing Trail (in floodway) N
Grand Blvd.
Proposed Trail Arterial Streets Bike/Ped Crossing
STRATEGY
49
BROCK CREEK GREENWAY DESIGN INTENT
BARRIER
AMENITY
SINGLE-FUNCTION
MULTI-FUNCTION
Brock Creek
Multi-Use Trail A trail creates recreational opportunities while enhancing existing access networks
DISCONNECTED 50
CONNECTED
Shrubs7
- Stabilize bank erosion - Provide visual diversity - Provide habitat
Greenway
29th Ave.
29th Street Commercial Corridor Devon Tower
Grand Blvd.
EXISTING PROPOSED
Rock Outcrops & Logs7 Introducing native habitat along the creek banks will provide stability and promote ecological function of the creek7
-Allows sediment to settle -Creates unique habitat for wildlife
Grasses7
-Trap sediment -Filter nutrients, pesticides, & microbes -Provide habitat for prairie wildlife
Trees7
- Provide habitat for forest wildlife - Prevent bank failures - Provide shade 51
RESOURCES & PRECEDENT STUDIES This section contains precedent studies, personal experiences I’ve had with restored creeks, and conversations I’ve had with project partners of similar projects. Each precedent study contributed to the framework, graphic design style, or technical information included in this report.
ENDNOTES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Health Impact Assessment PlanOKC Issues Sustain OKC BIKEWALKOKC EPA: Benefits of Healthy Watersheds Historical Capitol Hill - SW 25th, Walker, ESRI Reports Riparian Buffer Systems for Oklahoma EPA: The Economic Benefits of Protecting Healthy Watersheds The Oklahoma River, Part 2. Ecosystem Restoration Report and Integrated Environmental Assessment - Section 1135 Riverine Restoration Project - North Canadian River Tourism Industry Research Oklahoma Outdoor Recreation Economy Comparing NLCD 2011 to the Clark Labs’ Predicted NLCD 2050 303(d) Impaired Waterbody History Report for OK520520000010_40 USGS: Evaluation and Trends of Land Cover, Streamflow, and Water Quality in the North Canadian River Basin near Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 1968-2009 2014 Waterbody Report for Canadian River, North EPA: Watershed Index Plan OKC: Green OKC: Our Situation Restoring Neighborhood Streams: Planning, Design, and Construction. Ann L. Riley.
EPA Green Infrastructure: What is Green Infrastructure? Placemaking for an Aging Population: Guidelines for Senior-Friendly Parks The Oklahoma Wetlands Guide Green Streets: EPA’s “About Green Streets” . Oklahoma Conservation Commission
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: “Urban Creek Daylighting in Seattle: Community Building and Ecological Restoration”
This powerpoint highlights Seattle’s strategy to balance ecological and social goals, setting realistic long-term goals, and understanding that creek restoration alone cannot meet ecological goals but that it has to be a part of a larger ecological planning strategy.
“Waller Creek Park”
Waller Creek is located in Austin, Texas and has undergone restoration in phases (~1100’ per project). The Waller Creek Masterplan also contains strategies for restoration, with similar challenges to Oklahoma City’s Brock Creek.
53
PRECEDENT STUDIES
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION STYLES PROJECT INFORMATION HydroLIT: Southeast Tennessee Water Quality Playbook Studio Participants Ruxin Tao, Student ASLA Andrew Tarsi Kenny Townsend, Student ASLA Sponsors Southeast Tennessee District (SETD), represented by Chuck Hammonds, Assistant Executive Director Jennifer Williams, Regional Planner Publication By The University of Tennessee School of Landscape Architecture Environmental Design Lab Images & Project Resource: https://asla. org/2017studentawards/332631.html
Take-Aways: I will utilize this resource as a guide for my graphic communications of the value urban creek restoration has for communities.
54
This project was a 2017 ASLA Student Award winner. They did an outstanding job of graphically communicating the importance of watershed health and the effects of an urban environment on the hydrologic cycle. The graphic is informative and interesting. The graphic below visually communicates the opportunities given by creek restoration, while also calling out ecosystem services and hydrologic benefits. These are both incredible visualization tools for community members.
PRECEDENT STUDIES
PROJECT INFORMATION This project was a 2016 ASLA Student Award winner. The strength of this project is in their ability to create a narrative about the river corridor and communicate the opportunities along the corridor.
The Vermilion Corridor
The graphic below shows the sections that characterize the conditions at each section of the river. They generalize the characteristics in the area and apply different designs to each type of condition.
Faculty Advisors Lake Douglas, ASLA Forbes Lipschitz, ASLA Bruce Sharky, FASLA
Undergraduate Alexander Morvant, Associate ASLA
Louisiana State University Images & Project Resource: https://www.asla. org/2016studentawards/184456.html
Take-Aways: I will utilize this resource as a guide for creating typologies of OKC’s urban creeks and developing a narrative for the North Canadian River watershed. I will also replicate their use of ‘design studies’ when developing concepts for creek restoration.
55
PRECEDENT STUDIES
FRAMEWORK & IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT INFORMATION Conway Urban Watershed Framework Plan University of Arkansas Community Design Center Images & Project Resource: http://uacdc.uark.edu/work/conwayurban-watershed-framework-plan
Take-Aways: I saw Tanzil Shafique, Project Manager/Designer, Assoc. AIA, present this plan at Central States ASLA and discussed it with him after the conference. I’ve been fascinated with the project ever since. Their mapping and isometrics, coupled with simple diagrams and photos of existing conditions, communicate the existing problems facing the watershed. I plan to use this model of analyzing the ‘problemscape,’ or ecological stressors, around Brock Creek.
56
This project creates an easily understood framework for watershed health, by utilizing subwatershed scale and analyzing the conditions of each. The isometric graphics coupled with informative text effectively communicates the issues contributing to poor watershed health.
PRECEDENT STUDIES
PROJECT INFORMATION This project serves as an example of the value preserved or restored creeks add to communities. The water quality channel utilizes dense vegetation and mimics natural processes to capture, slow, and treat stormwater. It provides numerous ecosystem services and enhances the experience of the site.
Thornton Creek Water Quality Channel Owner Seattle Public Utilities SvR Role Landscape Architecture & Civil Engineering Top Image & Project Resource: http://www.svrdesign.com/thorntoncreek-water-quality-channel
Take-Aways: I saw this project presented by Lolly Kunkler, PE, of SvR|MiG, and discussed the project with her after the presentation. Walking through this project exposed the value added by this integrated design, using grey and green infrastructure to manage stormwater. This project is a showcase for urban stream restoration, as this creek was daylighted and now serves to manage stormwater, educate the public, and provide several ecosystem services. I will use this as an example for the value creek restoration can add to a site.
57
PRECEDENT STUDIES
FUNCTIONAL RESTORATION EXAMPLES PROJECT INFORMATION Santa Rosa Creek Project Restoration Type Functional
Functional Restoration: Stream restoration that recognizes many processes of streams can be returned, such as “sediment transport and deposition, erosion, vegetative growth, channel planform changes, bed load sorting, and riffle, pool, and step development that are associated with functioning habitat (Riley).”
Image & Project Resource: Restoring Neighborhood Streams Ann L. Riley
Take-Aways: This project seems to be at a similar scale to the Brock Creek corridor. I will use this example and others from Restoring Neighborhood Streams to demonstrate the possibility of functional stream restoration.
Santa Rosa Creek Project: This project was transformed from a concrete channel and “now erodes, transports, and deposits sediment; supports a narrow riparian corridor;” and provides habitat for native fish while maintaining floodplain functions (Riley).
58
PRECEDENT STUDIES
PROJECT INFORMATION Village Creek Project Restoration Type Functional Images & Project Resource: Restoring Neighborhood Streams Ann L. Riley
Take-Aways: I will use this example for another option for creek restoration. Different types of restoration meet different community goals. This may be a more appropriate scale and restoration technique for a smaller area, or a more narrow corridor along the creek.
Village Creek Project: This project shows the possibilities for functional restoration at a smaller scale than the previous example. This type of restoration could also be applied at a larger scale. It is partially a “rewilding� of the corridor, creating a riparian corridor to protect water quality, support habitat, and enhance the perception of a natural setting.
59